The Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College

What began as a summer job at America’s Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College has evolved into a 30-year adventure for Zoo Development Coordinator Mara Rodriguez.

“In 1992, I started my career at the Zoo. I established the Junior Safari Summer Camp and was the one and only counselor that first year of camp,” Mara says. “They hired me the week after graduating from the Exotic Animal Training and Management [EATM] program. When summer camp ended, I transitioned into working as a zoo instructional aide.”

Her devotion to the Zoo and the college’s EATM program have earned Mara a dual honor: She has been named Ventura County Community College District 2022 Classified Employee of the Year and Moorpark College’s.

“A lot of people think it is crazy that I have worked here my whole life,” she says. I think it’s crazy too, and I love it!”

Her career flourished, and Mara continued to accomplish professional goals. Six years after earning her associate degree, she became a lab technician, working closely with some of the Zoo’s more famous four-legged inhabitants, including Ira the Lion and Bengal tigers Neil and Karma.

Two years ago, Mara began her most recent role, where she raises funds for the Zoo and its animals. Her coworkers admire her enduring commitment to the Zoo’s mission, animals, high standards and others.

She believes her personal relationships as well as her encounters with animals will benefit her in her job. These interactions—coupled with her innate curiosity—clearly drive her success.

Her colleagues and her work’s creative aspects also inspire her to prevail and bring her immense gratification.